Course description for 2026/27
Spatial Analysis
GEO2006
Course description for 2026/27
Spatial Analysis
GEO2006
The course provides knowledge and skills to investigate social issues and solve issues within the fields of social science and the humanities using GIS. This course builds on the Basic GIS course. It provides training in GIS analysis and presentation in maps, graphs and tables that are specially adapted for the social sciences and humanities. We can offer the course in English for international students.
Basic courses in geographic information systems (GIS), such as GEO1009 Basic GIS, GEO220 Geographic Information Management, or equivalent. Students must be able to read academic literature written in English.
After completing the course, the student will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Knowledge:
- has knowledge of areas of application for GIS in the social sciences and humanities
- has knowledge of relevant data sources such as public statistics and procedures for collecting data
- has knowledge of sources of error and ethical aspects of analysis and data management
- has knowledge of geographical information standards.
Skills:
- can process geographic data and adapt data for use in GIS
- can edit attribute data, perform queries, and link attribute data
- can plan and implement analysis programmes and conduct spatial analysis involving overlay, buffers, distance measurements, viewshed in 3D, interpolation, correlation, and regression
- can create tools and geoprocessing models using GIS software
- can make presentations on core concepts within the field of spatial analysis and describe applications.
General competence:
- has knowledge of competence in advanced concepts of GIS and analytical opportunities with GIS
- has insight into theories behind statistical operations, classification schemes, spatial analysis, and cartography in GIS
- can plan and carry out analysis programmes in accordance with ethics and personal privacy
- is familiar with critical GIS and critical cartography.
In addition to the semester fee and course literature, students are expected to provide their own laptop computer on which GIS can be installed and used. Students must cover board and lodging expenses during the sessions, while potential bus expenses in relation to excursions are paid by Nord University.
Lectures and exercises held during the gatherings. Online lessons, webinars and exercises are also held. Skills and tools from the exercises linked to the textbook are used to build a semester project using GIS software demonstrating competence in spatial analysis. Participation is compulsory at the physical meetings.
The study program is evaluated annually by the students through course evaluations and study program evaluation.
Composite assessment. Students will receive a letter grade.
- Obligatory participation accounts for 0/100 of the grade and will be approved / not approved.
- It is assumed that you attend both physical meetings. Absence from a physical meeting leads to the submission of a compensatory assignment. Absence from two physical meetings means that you will not be approved for participation. Compulsory participation must be approved in order to get an overall grade in the course.
- Assignments account for 0/100 of the grade and will be approved/not approved.
- Must be passed before the beginning of the Home Exam.
- The home exam will take place over 7 days and account for 100% of the grade. Students will receive a letter grade.
All aids are allowed, but generating answers using artificial intelligence and submitting them wholly or partially as your own is considered cheating.
Basic competence in GIS equivalent with GEO1009, Geographic information systems is recommended.
Course language
Norwegian
Credits
10
Study location
Levanger
Teaching semesters
Spring 2026
Responsible faculty
Faculty of Social Sciences
Course coordinator
